Management method and mobile device

ABSTRACT

A method for managing a working environment of a worker who moves in a workplace includes: a measuring process in which a mobile device worn by the worker carries out environment measurement with use of a sensor; a location identifying process in which the mobile device identifies a location at which the measuring process has been carried out; and a transmitting process in which the mobile device transmits, to a management device, (i) a measurement value that has been obtained in the measuring process and (ii) positional information indicative of the location that has been identified in the location identifying process, in association each other.

This Nonprovisional application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 onPatent Application No. 2019-157297 filed in Japan on Aug. 29, 2019, theentire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a management method and a mobiledevice, each of which is for managing a working environment of a workerwho moves in a workplace.

BACKGROUND ART

Generally, environment measurement is carried out with use of handyapparatuses and various sensors such as fixed sensors. Note, here, that,in a case where environment measurement is merely carried out with useof various sensors, it is possible to obtain measurement values atlocations at which the environment measurement has been carried out, butit is not possible to intuitively and easily understand environmentalconditions in large regions. For this reason, a technique of making amap that shows spatial distribution of measurement values that have beenobtained by environment measurement has been developed.

For example, each of Patent Literatures 1 and 2 discloses such atechnique that (a) a robot configured to move in a room carries outenvironment measurement with use of a sensor and (b) a server (i)receives, from the robot, a measurement value that has been obtained bythe environment measurement and (ii) makes a map that shows spatialdistribution of measurement values.

Patent Literature 3 discloses such a technique that a vehicle having amap making system (i) carries out environment measurement while movingin a city or moving along a national road, a prefectural road, and thelike and (ii) makes a map that shows spatial distribution of measurementvalues that have been obtained by the environment measurement.

CITATION LIST Patent Literature

[Patent Literature 1]

-   Japanese Patent Application Publication Tokukai No. 2005-16931    (Publication date: Jan. 20, 2005)

[Patent Literature 2]

-   Japanese Patent Application Publication Tokukai No. 2008-254167    (Publication date: Oct. 23, 2008)

[Patent Literature 3]

-   Japanese Patent Application Publication Tokukai No. 2013-32926    (Publication date: Feb. 14, 2013)

SUMMARY OF INVENTION Technical Problem

Also in a manufacturing environment such as a factory, a technique ofvisualizing spatial distribution of measurement values in a workplace isrequired so as to manage a working environment of a worker who moves inthe workplace. However, in a case where the technique disclosed in eachof Patent Literatures 1 through 3 is intended to be used, it isnecessary to introduce the robot or the vehicle. This disadvantageouslycosts considerably. Furthermore, in a case where the robot or thevehicle is caused to move in a workplace and the like other than anexclusive path in a factory, it is technically difficult toautomatically control movement of the robot or the vehicle, so that themovement of the robot or the vehicle is highly likely to become ahindrance to worker's work. Thus, causing the robot or the vehicle tomove in a workplace and the like other than an exclusive path in afactory is not realistic. Therefore, according to the conventionaltechniques as disclosed in Patent Literatures 1 to 3, it is not possibleto suitably manage a working environment of a worker who moves in aworkplace.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, andan object of the present invention is to achieve (i) a management methodfor suitably managing a working environment of a worker who moves in aworkplace and (ii) a technique relevant to the management method.

Solution to Problem

In order to attain the above object, a management method in accordancewith an aspect of the present invention is a method for managing aworking environment of a worker who moves in a workplace. The managementmethod includes: a measuring process in which a mobile device worn bythe worker carries out environment measurement with use of a sensor; alocation identifying process in which the mobile device identifies alocation at which the measuring process has been carried out; and atransmitting process in which the mobile device transmits, to amanagement device, (i) a measurement value that has been obtained in themeasuring process and (ii) positional information indicative of thelocation that has been identified in the location identifying process,in association each other.

According to the above configuration, it is possible for the mobiledevice worn by the worker who moves in the workplace to carry out theenvironment measurement. With reference to the measurement value and thepositional information received from the mobile device, it is possiblefor the management device to make a map that shows spatial distributionof measurement values in the workplace. Therefore, it is possible tosuitably manage the working environment of the worker who moves in theworkplace, as compared with a configuration in which a robot is used tocarry out environment measurement as in the technique disclosed in eachof Patent Literatures 1 and 2 and a configuration in which a vehicle isused to carry out environment measurement as in the technique disclosedin Patent Literature 3.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

According to an aspect of the present invention, it is possible toachieve (i) a management method for suitably managing a workingenvironment of a worker who moves in a workplace and (ii) a techniquerelevant to the management method.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic view illustrating a management method inaccordance with Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a mobiledevice in accordance with Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of a managementprocess carried out by the mobile device in accordance with Embodiment 1of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a managementdevice in accordance with Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of a managementprocess carried out by the management device in accordance withEmbodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating an example of a screen on which a mapthat is made in Embodiment 1 of the present invention and that showsspatial distribution of measurement values in a workplace is displayed.

FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating an example of a graph that is made inEmbodiment 1 of the present invention and that shows temporal changes inconcentration in a selective region on the map.

FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating an example of an amenity meter that ismade in Embodiment 1 of the present invention and that shows safety andamenity in a selective region on the map.

FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating an example of a screen on which a mapthat is made in Embodiment 1 of the present invention and that showsspatial distribution of measurement values in the workplace isdisplayed.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Embodiment 1

The following description will discuss Embodiment 1 of the presentinvention in detail.

[Management Method]

First, an outline of a management method for managing a workingenvironment of each of workers M1 who move in a workplace A1, whichmethod is carried out by a management system 1 in accordance withEmbodiment 1, will be described below with reference to FIG. 1. Asillustrated in FIG. 1, the management system 1 includes mobile devices 2and a management device 3.

(Environment Measurement)

FIG. 1 is a schematic view for describing the management method inaccordance with Embodiment 1. According to an example illustrated inFIG. 1, the workplace A1, which is a limited area such as a factory, isdivided into four unit workplaces A2 each of which has 3×3 sections.Four workers M1 move in the respective unit workplaces A2 (excluding aregion in which a material storage O1 is disposed and a region in whicha facility O2 is disposed). The four workers M1 wear the respectivemobile devices 2 on, for example, their clothes. The mobile devices 2worn by the respective four workers M1 are moved in the respective unitworkplaces A2, as the respective four workers M1 move. Each of themobile devices 2 carries out a measuring process of carrying outenvironment measurement, in a corresponding one of the unit workplacesA2, with use of various sensors such as a dust sensor 21 a, anacceleration sensor 21 b, a light sensor 21 c, a sound sensor 21 d, anda temperature and humidity sensor 21 e. The various sensors are attachedto a main body of the each of the mobile devices 2 so that the varioussensors are exposed to an environment of the workplace A1. The varioussensors are connected to the each of the mobile devices 2 by wire orwireless. Note that the various sensors used to carry out theenvironment measurement are not limited to the above examples. Theworkers M1 can use any kind of sensor necessary to measure the workingenvironment, such as an atmospheric pressure sensor (not illustrated)and a gas sensor (not illustrated).

Note, here, that a unit workplace indicates a workplace that serves as aunit based on which a mobile device worn by a worker carries out ameasuring process. Note also that the unit workplace is not limited tothe above example and can be any region, provided that, in a region inwhich work involving a hazardous substance such as free silicic acid iscarried out, the unit workplace is a region in which it is considerednecessary to manage the worker in consideration of (i) a range ofmovement of the worker while the worker is at work and (ii) distributionof a concentration of the hazardous substance. Note also that, accordingto the above example, the four workers M1 move in the respective unitworkplaces A2, and the mobile devices 2 worn by the respective fourworkers M1 each carry out the environment measurement. However, inEmbodiment 1, it is only necessary that at least one worker move in aworkplace and a mobile device worn by the at least one worker carry outenvironment measurement in the workplace.

According to the example illustrated in FIG. 1, in the workplace A1,each of the unit workplaces A2 is divided into nine sections, andrespective center points of the nine sections are defined as measurementpoints A3 which are necessary to make a map that shows spatialdistribution of measurement values (in Embodiment 1, spatialdistribution of a hazardous substance). When each of the four workers M1passes through each of the measurement points A3, a corresponding one ofthe mobile devices 2 which one is worn by the each of the four workersM1 carries out, at the each of the measurement points (predeterminedlocation) A3, the measuring process of carrying out the environmentmeasurement with use of the various sensors such as the dust sensor 21a.

This allows locations at each of which the measuring process is carriedout (hereinafter, referred to as measurement locations) to be lessconcentrated at a specific location. As a result, it is possible for themanagement device 3 to suitably make the map that shows the spatialdistribution of the measurement values in the workplace A1. Themanagement device 3 outputs the map thus made to an output device(display device) 37. As a result, as illustrated in FIG. 1, it ispossible for a manager M2 in a management room R to suitably manage theworkers M1 who move in the respective unit workplaces A2, by, forexample, checking the map displayed by the output device 37. The mapwill be later described in detail.

Note that, according to the above example, each of the mobile devices 2carries out the environment measurement at each of the measurementpoints A3 so that the measurement locations are less concentrated at aspecific location. In Embodiment 1, instead of the measurementlocations, intervals at which the measuring process is carried out(hereinafter, referred to as measurement intervals) can be alternativelyadjusted. In this case, each of the mobile devices 2 shortens themeasurement intervals, as a speed at which a corresponding one of theworkers M1 moves (acceleration) becomes faster. Specifically, each ofthe mobile devices 2 shortens the measurement intervals, in a case wherea speed at which a corresponding one of the workers M1 moves(acceleration) is fast. In contrast, each of the mobile devices 2lengthens the measurement intervals, in a case where a speed at which acorresponding one of the workers M1 moves (acceleration) is slow (forexample, in a case where the corresponding one of the workers M1 hardlymoves). This also allows the measurement locations to be lessconcentrated at a specific location.

Note, here, that each of the mobile devices 2 is configured such that,in a case where the measuring process is carried out with use of theabove dust sensor 21 a, air is blown to the dust sensor 21 a. Morespecifically, each of the mobile devices 2 is configured such that (i)air is not blown to the dust sensor 21 a in normal times other than atiming at which the environment measurement (for example, theenvironment measurement on the hazardous substance) is carried out withuse of the dust sensor 21 a and (ii) air is blown to the dust sensor 21a by a fan (not illustrated) or the like merely at the timing at whichthe environment measurement is carried out with use of the dust sensor21 a (for example, immediately before the environment measurement iscarried out with use of the dust sensor 21 a).

Note, here, that, in a case where a dust sensor has a mobile size, thedust sensor generally measures a concentration of dust, such as fumes,by a dust suction method in which the dust is sucked with use of a hotdraft, due to a battery issue. However, according to the dust suctionmethod, a speed at which the dust is sucked into the dust sensor (aspeed at which the dust moves) is slower than a speed at which a workerM1 moves. Therefore, there is a possibility that the concentration(measurement value) of the dust, which concentration has been obtainedin a measuring process of carrying out environment measurement with useof the dust sensor, does not correspond to (match) a location at whichthe measuring process has been carried out. Further, in a case where theworker causes the measuring process to be carried out with use of thedust sensor while the worker is moving, there is also a possibility thatthe dust sensor cannot obtain a sufficient amount of atmospheric air(air). Moreover, in a case where (i) a suction device such as a fan isprovided to the dust sensor and (ii) atmospheric air (air) containingthe dust (floating dust) in an amount necessary for measurement issucked into the dust sensor, a problem that an amount of consumption ofa battery is increased is raised.

In contrast, according to Embodiment 1, as described above, each of themobile devices 2 is configured such that air is blown to the dust sensor21 a merely at the timing at which the environment measurement iscarried out with use of the dust sensor 21 a. This makes it possible to(i) suppress an amount of consumption of a battery and (ii) decrease anamount of dirt accumulated on a surface of the dust sensor 21 a.

As described above, each of the mobile devices 2 repeats the environmentmeasurement at each of the measurement points A3 included in acorresponding one of the unit workplaces A2. Each of the mobile devices2 thus carries out, in a corresponding one of the unit workplaces A2,the measuring process of carrying out the environment measurement. Eachof the mobile devices 2 carries out the measuring process with use ofthe various sensors such as the dust sensor 21 a.

(Identification of Location)

According to the example illustrated in FIG. 1, each of the mobiledevices 2 identifies a location at which the each of the mobile devices2 has carried out the measuring process, with reference to (i) aninitial location A4 which is a location corresponding to a transmitter Bof a beacon (radio beacon) attached to an entrance of the workplace A1and which has been identified by the beacon and (ii) an accelerationwhich has been detected by the acceleration sensor 21 b. Specifically,each of the mobile devices 2 obtains, from the transmitter B of thebeacon, the initial location A4 which has been identified by the beacon.Subsequently, the each of the mobile devices 2 calculates the speed byintegrating the acceleration which has been detected by the accelerationsensor 21 b, and then further integrates the speed so as to calculate adistance from the initial location A4. The each of the mobile devices 2identifies a location, for example, by calculating coordinates from thedistance while regarding the initial location A4 as an origin. In thismanner, use of a radio beacon, such as the transmitter B of the beacon,and the acceleration sensor 21 b in combination makes it possible toidentify, with high accuracy, the location at which the measuringprocess has been carried out, as compared with a case where the locationis identified with use of merely the radio beacon or merely theacceleration sensor. Moreover, it is possible to identify the locationwithout use of numerous radio beacons. This allows a decrease in cost.

(Transmission and Reception of Measurement Value and PositionalInformation)

Each of the mobile devices 2 transmits, to the management device 3, (i)a measurement value that has been obtained in the measuring process ofcarrying out the environment measurement and (ii) positional informationindicative of the location that has been identified in a locationidentifying process of identifying the location at which the measuringprocess has been carried out, in association with each other. Themanagement device 3 receives the measurement value and the positionalinformation from the each of the mobile devices 2.

(Making of Map that Shows Spatial Distribution of Measurement Values inWorkplace A1)

The management device 3 makes the map that shows the spatialdistribution of the measurement values in the workplace A1, withreference to the measurement value and the positional information whichhave been received from each of the mobile devices 2.

According to the above configuration, the mobile devices 2 are worn bythe respective four workers M1 who move in the respective unitworkplaces A2. Each of the mobile devices 2 carries out the environmentmeasurement. The management device 3 makes the map that shows thespatial distribution of the measurement values in the unit workplacesA2, with reference to the measurement value and the positionalinformation which have been received from each of the mobile devices 2.Therefore, it is possible to suitably manage a working environment of aworker who moves in a workplace, as compared with a configuration inwhich a robot is used to carry out environment measurement as in thetechnique disclosed in each of Patent Literatures 1 and 2 and aconfiguration in which a vehicle is used to carry out environmentmeasurement as in the technique disclosed in Patent Literature 3. As aresult, it is possible for the manager M2 to suitably manage the workersM1 who move in the respective four unit workplaces A2 by, for example,checking the map displayed by the output device (display device) 37.Furthermore, it is possible for the manager M2 to intuitively understanda condition of the workplace A1, which is a large region including theunit workplaces A2, by checking the map displayed by the output device37. This promotes “visualization” of the workplace A1, and consequentlyallows the workplace A1 to be a place where the workers M1 can movewithout anxiety. Moreover, it is possible for the manager M2 to (i)promptly find a deterioration of an environmental condition in each ofthe unit workplaces A2 in which the respective workers M1 move and (ii)prevent the environmental condition from being deteriorated, by, forexample, analyzing the measurement values and accordingly controlling ormaintaining facilities and the like. Besides, according to the abovemanagement method, it is only necessary that the workers M1 who wear therespective mobile devices 2 move and the manager M2 check the map madeby the management device 3. Therefore, it is possible to manage, at alow cost, the working environment of each of the workers M1 who move inthe respective unit workplaces A2.

Every time the management device 3 receives, from each of the mobiledevices 2, (i) the measurement value that has been newly obtained by theenvironment measurement and (ii) the positional information indicativeof the location at which the measuring process has been newly carriedout, the management device 3 makes the map in which one of themeasurement values which one corresponds to, in the map, the location atwhich the measuring process has been newly carried out is replaced withthe measurement value that has been newly obtained in the measuringprocess. This makes it possible to suitably make the map that shows thespatial distribution of the latest measurement values in the workplaceA1. As a result, it is possible for the manager M2 to more suitablymanage the working environment of each of the workers M1 who move in theworkplace A1.

(Identification of Management Class)

After the management device 3 makes the map that shows the spatialdistribution of the measurement values in the workplace A1, themanagement device 3 can identify a management class of each of the unitworkplaces A2.

Specifically, the management device 3 identifies the management class ofeach of the unit workplaces A2 by comparing (i) an average or a maximumvalue of the measurement values that have been obtained by theenvironment measurement on the hazardous substance in the each of theunit workplaces A2 with (ii) a management concentration which is apredetermined concentration corresponding to the hazardous substance(for example, free silicic acid). The management concentration E (mg/m³)which is a predetermined concentration is calculated as in the followingExpression (1) with use of a free silicic acid content Q (%) of dustwhich free silicic acid content is inputted in each of the mobiledevices 2 in advance. Note that, for example, it is possible for themanagement device 3 to calculate the average and the maximum value ofthe measurement values with reference to the measurement values thathave been obtained during predetermined time. The management class willbe later described in detail.

E=3.0/(1.19Q+1)  (1)

As described above, it is possible to suitably identify the managementclass of each of the unit workplaces A2 by comparing an average or amaximum value of a concentration of the dust with the managementconcentration which is a predetermined concentration corresponding tofree silicic acid, without an expert carrying out the environmentmeasurement on the hazardous substance and analyzing data. This makes itpossible for the manager M2 to more suitably manage the workingenvironment of each of the workers M1 who move in the respective unitworkplaces A2 which contain the hazardous substance such as free silicicacid.

After the management device 3 identifies the management class, themanagement device 3 makes the map that discernibly shows the managementclass of each of the unit workplaces A2 included in the workplace A1, bysuperimposing the management class on the map that shows the spatialdistribution of the measurement values in the workplace A1.

(Display of Map that Shows Spatial Distribution of Measurement Values inWorkplace A1)

The management device 3 outputs, to the output device (display device)37, the map that has been thus made and that shows the spatialdistribution of the measurement values in the workplace A1, and causesthe output device 37 to display the map. In a case where the managementdevice 3 does not identify the management class, the management device 3causes the output device 37 to display the map on which the managementclass is not superimposed. In a case where the management device 3 hasidentified the management class, the management device 3 causes theoutput device 37 to display the map on which the management class issuperimposed.

[Configuration of Mobile Device 2]

Next, a configuration of each of the mobile devices 2 in accordance withEmbodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is ablock diagram illustrating a configuration of a mobile device 2 inaccordance with Embodiment 1.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the mobile device 2 is a computer includingthe dust sensor 21 a, the acceleration sensor 21 b, the light sensor 21c, the sound sensor 21 d, the temperature and humidity sensor 21 e, acontroller 22, a main memory 23, an auxiliary memory 24, a communicationinterface 25 a, a communication interface 25 b, and an input-outputinterface 26. The dust sensor 21 a, the acceleration sensor 21 b, thelight sensor 21 c, the sound sensor 21 d, the temperature and humiditysensor 21 e, the controller 22, the main memory 23, the auxiliary memory24, the communication interface 25 a, the communication interface 25 b,and the input-output interface 26 are connected to each other via a bus29. As the controller 22, for example, a single or a plurality ofmicroprocessors, a single or a plurality of digital signal processors, asingle or a plurality of microcontrollers, or a combination thereof canbe used. As the main memory 23, for example, a single or a plurality ofsemiconductor random access memories (RAMs) can be used. As theauxiliary memory 24, for example, a single or a plurality of hard diskdrives (HDDs), a single or a plurality of solid state drives (SSDs), ora combination of thereof can be used. Part or all of the auxiliarymemory 24 can be a storage on a network which storage is connected viathe communication interface 25 b. The communication interface 25 a isconnected to the transmitter B of the beacon via a wireless LAN L. Thecommunication interface 25 b is connected to the management device 3 viaa WAN Wa such as the Internet. As the input-output interface 26, forexample, a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a near fieldcommunication interface such as an infrared interface and Bluetooth(registered trademark), or a combination thereof can be used.

To the input-output interface 26, an input device 27 and the outputdevice 28 are, for example, connected. As the input device 27, forexample, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch pad, a microphone, or acombination thereof can be used. As the output device 28, for example, adisplay, a printer, a speaker, or a combination thereof can be used.Note that a keyboard and a touch pad each of which functions as theinput device 27 and a display which functions as the output device 28can be embedded in the mobile device 2 like a notebook computer. Notealso that a touch panel which functions as the input device 27 and theoutput device 28 can be embedded in the mobile device 2 like asmartphone or a tablet computer.

In the auxiliary memory 24, a program P1 is stored. The program P1 is aprogram for causing the controller 22 to carry out processes in stepsS101 through S107 (later described). The controller 22 loads, on themain memory 23, the program P1 stored in the auxiliary memory 24, andexecutes each command which is contained in the program P1 loaded on themain memory 23. The controller 22 thereby carries out each step includedin each of the processes in the steps S101 through S107 (laterdescribed). Further, in the auxiliary memory 24, various pieces of datato which the controller 22 refers so as to carry out the processes inthe steps S101 through S107 (later described) are stored.

Note, according to the above example, the dust sensor 21 a, theacceleration sensor 21 b, the light sensor 21 c, the sound sensor 21 d,and the temperature and humidity sensor 21 e are connected to thecontroller 22 by wire, that is, via the bus 29. Note, however, that, inEmbodiment 1, the dust sensor 21 a, the acceleration sensor 21 b, thelight sensor 21 c, the sound sensor 21 d, and the temperature andhumidity sensor 21 e can be alternatively connected to the controller 22by wireless.

Note also that the above example has discussed a mode in which thecontroller 22 carries out the processes in the steps S101 through S107(later described) in accordance with the program P1 stored in theauxiliary memory 24 which is an internal storage medium. However, a modecan be alternatively employed in which the controller 22 carries out theprocesses in the steps S101 through S107 (later described) in accordancewith the program P1 stored in an external storage medium. In this case,the external storage medium can be a computer-readable “non-transitorytangible medium” such as a tape, a disk, a card, a semiconductor memory,or a programmable logic circuit. Alternatively, a mode can be employedin which the controller 22 carries out the processes in the steps S101through S107 (later described) in accordance with the program P1obtained on the network connected via the communication interface 25 b.In this case, the network can be, for example, the Internet, a wiredlocal area network (LAN), a wireless LAN, or a combination of at leastpart of these networks.

[Flow of Management Process Carried Out by Mobile Device 2]

A flow of a management process carried out by the mobile device 2configured as described above will be described with reference to FIG.3. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of themanagement process carried out by the mobile device 2 in accordance withEmbodiment 1.

In the step S101, the controller 22 of the mobile device 2 determineswhether or not at least the dust sensor 21 a, out of the varioussensors, is exposed to the environment of the workplace A1. In otherwords, the controller 22 of the mobile device 2 determines whether ornot the dust sensor 21 a is placed at a location at which the dustsensor 21 a is in contact with atmospheric air (external air) in theworkplace A1. In a case where the controller 22 of the mobile device 2determines that the dust sensor 21 a is exposed to the environment ofthe workplace A1, the management process proceeds to the step S103. In acase where the controller 22 of the mobile device 2 determines that thedust sensor 21 a is not exposed to the environment of the workplace A1,the management process proceeds to the step S102.

In the step S102, in a case where the controller 22 of the mobile device2 determines that the dust sensor 21 a is not exposed to the environmentof the workplace A1, the controller 22 controls a notification to besent to a worker M1 (notifying process). As an example, in a case where(i) the light sensor (illuminance sensor) 21 c is provided near the dustsensor 21 a and (ii) the dust sensor 21 a is not attached to a locationnear the face of the worker M1 (such as a helmet of the worker M1 or achest part or a shoulder part of working clothes of the worker M1) by afixing member, the light sensor 21 c raises an alarm. In a case wherethe various sensors, such as the dust sensor 21 a, which are used tocarry out the measuring process are not worn by the worker M1 under anormal condition, errors occur in measurement values obtained by theenvironment measurement. However, by notifying the worker M1 asdescribed above, it is possible to prevent errors from occurring.

In the step S103, the controller 22 of the mobile device 2 controls theenvironment measurement to be carried out with use of the sensors, suchas the light sensor 21 c, the sound sensor 21 d, and the temperature andhumidity sensor 21 e.

In the step S104, the controller 22 of the mobile device 2 controls airto be blown out to the dust sensor 21 a by a fan (not illustrated) orthe like before (for example, immediately before) the measuring processis carried out (air blowing process).

In the step S105, the controller 22 of the mobile device 2 controls theenvironment measurement to be carried out with use of the sensors, suchas the dust sensor 21 a, worn by the worker M1 (measuring process). Asan example, the mobile device 2 carries out the measuring process bycarrying out the environment measurement on the hazardous substance,such as free silicic acid, at predetermined locations, such as themeasurement points A3, in the workplace A1. Further, as an example, themobile device 2 shortens the measurement intervals, as a speed at whichthe worker M1 moves becomes faster.

In the step S106, the controller 22 of the mobile device 2 identifiesthe location at which the measuring process of carrying out theenvironment measurement has been carried out (location identifyingprocess). As an example, the mobile devices 2 obtains, from thetransmitter B of the beacon via the communication interface 25 a, theinitial location A4 which is a location corresponding to the transmitterB of the beacon (radio beacon) attached to the entrance of the workplaceA1 and which has been identified by the beacon. Further, the mobiledevice 2 identifies the location with reference to the initial locationA4 and the acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor 21 b.

In the step S107, the controller 22 of the mobile device 2 transmits, tothe management device 3 via the communication interface 25 b, (i) themeasurement value that has been obtained in the measuring process and(ii) the positional information indicative of the location that has beenidentified in the location identifying process, in association with eachother (transmitting process). After the step S107, the controller 22 ofthe mobile device 2 repeats the above-described processes from the stepS101.

Note that, according to the above example, the controller 22 of themobile device 2 determines, in the step S101, whether or not at leastthe dust sensor 21 a, out of the various sensors, is exposed to theenvironment of the workplace A1. Note also that, in the step S102, in acase where the controller 22 of the mobile device 2 determines that thedust sensor 21 a is not exposed to the environment of the workplace A1,the controller 22 controls the notification to be sent to the worker M1.Note, however, that, in Embodiment 1, the controller 22 of the mobiledevice 2 can alternatively control the notification to be sent to theworker M1, in a case where the sensors, such as the dust sensor 21 a,are not attached to the main body of the mobile device 2 so that thesensors are exposed to the workplace A1 or in a case where the sensorsare not connected to the mobile device 2 by wire or wireless.

Note also that, according to the above example, in the step S105, thecontroller 22 of the mobile device 2 controls the environmentmeasurement to be carried out on, for example, the hazardous substancewith use of the sensors, such as the dust sensor 21 a, worn by theworker M1. In Embodiment 1, the controller 22 of the mobile device 2 canalternatively control the environment measurement to be carried out on,for example, a temperature with use of the temperature and humiditysensor 21 e worn by the worker M1, instead of the environmentmeasurement on the hazardous substance. In this case, the controller 22of the mobile device 2 can omit the processes in the steps S104 andS105, and can carry out merely the processes in the steps S101 throughS103, S106, and S107. This also allows a controller 31 of the managementdevice 3 to make a map that shows spatial distribution of measurementvalues of the temperature or the like, with reference to a measurementvalue of the temperature or the like received from the mobile device 2.As a result, it is possible to suitably manage the working environmentof the worker M1 who moves in the workplace A1.

[Configuration of Management Device 3]

Next, a configuration of the management device 3 in accordance withEmbodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is ablock diagram illustrating the configuration of the management device 3in accordance with Embodiment 1.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, the management device 3 is a computerincluding the controller 31, a main memory 32, an auxiliary memory 33, acommunication interface 34, and an input-output interface 35. Thecontroller 31, the main memory 32, the auxiliary memory 33, thecommunication interface 34, and the input-output interface 35 areconnected to each other via a bus 38. As the controller 31, for example,a single or a plurality of microprocessors, a single or a plurality ofdigital signal processors, a single or a plurality of microcontrollers,or a combination thereof can be used. As the main memory 32, forexample, a single or a plurality of semiconductor random access memories(RAMs) can be used. As the auxiliary memory 33, for example, a single ora plurality of hard disk drives (HDDs), a single or a plurality of solidstate drives (SSDs), or a combination of thereof can be used. Part orall of the auxiliary memory 33 can be a storage on a network whichstorage is connected via the communication interface 34. Thecommunication interface 34 is connected to each of the mobile devices 2via a WAN Wb such as the Internet. As the input-output interface 35, forexample, a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a near fieldcommunication interface such as an infrared interface and Bluetooth(registered trademark), or a combination thereof can be used.

To the input-output interface 35, an input device 36 and the outputdevice 37 are, for example, connected. As the input device 36, forexample, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch pad, a microphone, or acombination thereof can be used. As the output device 37, for example, adisplay, a printer, a speaker, or a combination thereof can be used.According to the example illustrated in FIG. 1, the output device 37 isa display device including a display. Note that a keyboard and a touchpad each of which functions as the input device 36 and a display whichfunctions as the output device 37 can be embedded in the managementdevice 3 like a notebook computer. Note also that a touch panel whichfunctions as the input device 36 and the output device 37 can beembedded in the management device 3 like a smartphone or a tabletcomputer.

In the auxiliary memory 33, a program P2 is stored. The program P2 is aprogram for causing the controller 31 to carry out processes in stepsS201 through S205 (later described). The controller 31 loads, on themain memory 32, the program P2 stored in the auxiliary memory 33, andexecutes each command which is contained in the program P2 loaded on themain memory 32. The controller 31 thereby carries out each step includedin each of the processes in the steps S201 through S205 (laterdescribed). Further, in the auxiliary memory 33, various pieces of datato which the controller 31 refers so as to carry out the processes inthe steps S201 through S205 (later described) are stored.

Note here that a mode has been described in which the controller 31carries out the processes in the steps S201 through S205 (laterdescribed) in accordance with the program P2 stored in the auxiliarymemory 33 which is an internal storage medium. However, the managementdevice 3 is not limited such a configuration. That is, a mode can bealternatively employed in which the controller 31 carries out theprocesses in the steps S201 through S205 (later described) in accordancewith the program P2 stored in an external storage medium. In this case,the external storage medium can be a computer-readable “non-transitorytangible medium” such as a tape, a disk, a card, a semiconductor memory,or a programmable logic circuit. Alternatively, a mode can be employedin which the controller 31 carries out the processes in the steps S201through S205 (later described) in accordance with the program P2obtained on the network connected via the communication interface 34. Inthis case, the network can be, for example, the Internet, a wired localarea network (LAN), a wireless LAN, or a combination of at least part ofthese networks.

[Flow of Management Process Carried Out by Management Device 3]

A flow of a management process (management method) carried out by themanagement device 3 configured as described above will be described withreference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of aflow of the management process carried out by the management device 3 inaccordance with Embodiment 1.

In the step S201, the controller 31 of the management device 3 receives,from each of the mobile devices 2 worn by respective workers M1, (i) themeasurement value that has been obtained in the measuring process ofcarrying out the environment measurement and (ii) the positionalinformation indicative of the location at which the measuring processhas been carried out, via the communication interface 34 (receivingprocess).

In the step S202, the controller 31 of the management device 3 makes themap that shows the spatial distribution of the measurement values in theworkplace A1, with reference to the measurement value and the positionalinformation which have been received in the step S201 (making process).As an example, the controller 31 of the management device 3 makes themap that shows the spatial distribution of the hazardous substance inthe workplace A1. Note, here, that the controller 31 of the managementdevice 3 makes the map on which the management class is notsuperimposed.

In the step S203, the controller 31 of the management device 3identifies the management class of each of the unit workplaces A2(management class identifying process). As an example, the controller 31of the management device 3 compares (i) the average or the maximum valueof the measurement values that have been obtained by the environmentmeasurement (the concentration of the dust which concentration has beenmeasured by the dust sensor 21 a) in each of the unit workplaces A2 with(ii) the management concentration which is a predetermined concentrationcorresponding to the hazardous substance such as free silicic acid. Thecontroller 31 of the management device 3 thus identifies the managementclass of each of the unit workplaces A2.

In the step S204, the controller 31 of the management device 3superimposes, on the map that has been made in the step S202 and thatshows the spatial distribution of the measurement values in theworkplace A1, the management class of each of the unit workplaces A2which management class has been identified in the step S203. Thecontroller 31 of the management device 3 thus makes the map whichdiscernibly shows the management class of each of the unit workplaces A2included in the workplace A1 (making process).

In the step S205, the controller 31 of the management device 3 controls,via the input-output interface 35, the output device 37 to display themap thus made.

After the step S205, the controller 31 of the management device 3repeats the above-described processes from the step S201. Every time, inthe step S201, the controller 31 of the management device 3 receives,from each of the mobile devices 2, (i) the measurement value that hasbeen newly obtained in the measuring process and (ii) the positionalinformation indicative of the location at which the measuring processhas been newly carried out, the controller 31 of the management device 3makes, in the step S202, the map that shows the spatial distribution ofthe latest measurement values in the workplace A1, by replacing, withthe measurement value that has been newly obtained in the measuringprocess, one of the measurement values which one corresponds to thelocation at which the measuring process has been newly carried out.

Note that, according to the above example, the controller 31 of themanagement device 3 carries out all the processes in the steps S201through S205. In Embodiment 1, in a case where the controller 31 of themanagement device 3 repeats the above processes from the step S201 (thatis, the processes loop), the controller 31 of the management device 3can carry out the step S203 merely in a specific loop (hereinafter, alsoreferred to as a “management class identifying loop”) and omit the stepS203 in a loop other than the management class identifying loop. Note,here, that a frequency at which the step S203 is carried out, that is, aproportion of the number of management class identifying loops withrespect to the total number of loops is, for example, one several tenthsof the total number of loops.

This makes it possible for the manager M2 to efficiently and suitablymanage the working environment of each of the workers M1 who move in theworkplace A1. Note that, in the step S204 in the loop other than themanagement class identifying loop, the controller 31 of the managementdevice 3 superimposes, on the map that shows the spatial distribution ofthe measurement values, the management class that has been identified inthe step S203 carried out in the last management class identifying loop.Note also that, in the step S205 in the loop other than the managementclass specific loop, the controller 31 of the management device 3controls the output device 37 to display the map on which the managementclass that has been identified in the step S203 carried out in the lastmanagement class specific loop is superimposed. In this case, thecontroller 31 of the management device 3 can regard the first loop asthe management class identifying loop, and carry out the process in thestep S203. This makes it possible to display the map on which themanagement class is always superimposed.

Note also that, according to the above example, the controller 31 of themanagement device 3 makes, in the step S202, the map that shows thespatial distribution of the hazardous substance, as the map that showsthe spatial distribution of the measurement values. In Embodiment 1, forexample, the controller 31 of the management device 3 can alternativelymake, in the step S202, the map that shows the spatial distribution ofthe measurement values of the temperature or the like, instead of themap that shows the spatial distribution of the hazardous substance. Inthis case, the controller 31 of the management device 3 can omit theprocesses in the steps S203 and S204, and can carry out merely theprocesses in the steps S201, S202, and S205. This also allows thecontroller 31 of the management device 3 to make the map that shows thespatial distribution of the measurement values of the temperature. As aresult, it is possible to suitably manage the working environment ofeach of the workers M1 who move in the workplace A1.

[Map that Shows Spatial Distribution of Measurement Values in Workplace]

Next, an example of the map that shows the spatial distribution of themeasurement values in the workplace, which map is made in Embodiment 1,will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 through 9.

(Example Display 1 of Map that Shows Spatial Distribution of MeasurementValues in Workplace)

First, example display 1 of the map that shows the spatial distributionof the measurement values in the workplace will be described withreference to FIGS. 6 through 8. FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating anexample of a screen (first screen S1) on which a map Ma that is made inEmbodiment 1 of the present invention and that shows spatialdistribution of measurement values (spatial distribution of a hazardoussubstance) in a workplace A5 is displayed. FIG. 7 is a drawingillustrating an example of a graph that is made in Embodiment 1 and thatshows temporal changes in concentration in a selective region Z1 on themap Ma. FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating an example of an amenity meterthat is made in Embodiment 1 and that shows safety and amenity in aselective region Z2 on the map Ma.

According to the map Ma illustrated in FIG. 6, out of buttons B whichare constituted by buttons B1 through B5, the button B1 which is relatedto a concentration of dust is selected, and the concentration of thedust is displayed so that the concentration of the dust is recognized inmultiple stages. A concentration of the hazardous substance, such asfree silicic acid, contained in the dust is proportional to theconcentration of the dust. Therefore, the map Ma shows the spatialdistribution of the hazardous substance in the workplace A5 bydisplaying the concentration of the dust. This makes it possible tointuitively understand a condition of the workplace A5 which is a largeregion including unit workplaces A6. Furthermore, the map Ma showsmobile devices 2, a material storage O3, and facilities O4. Since themobile devices 2 are thus displayed on the map Ma, it is possible for amanager M2 to suitably manage workers M1 who wear the respective mobiledevices 2. Note that it is possible for the manager M2 to select any oneof the buttons B1 through B5 (see FIG. 6) via an input device 36. Notethat, according to the above example, the buttons B1 through B5 aredisplayed on the first screen S1, and it is possible for the manager M2to switch screens by selecting any one of the buttons B1 through B4instead of the button B5. In Embodiment 1, the first screen S1 can bealternatively configured such that tabs are displayed on the firstscreen S1 instead of the buttons B1 through B5 and screens are switcheddepending on a selected one of the tabs.

Note that, on the map Ma, a first management class I, a secondmanagement class II, or a third management class III is discerniblydisplayed with respect to each of the unit workplaces A6 included in theworkplace A5 (see FIG. 6). Note, here, that the first management class Iindicates that a risk of exceeding a management concentration (anaverage of the concentration of the dust) is lower than 5% or a maximumvalue of the concentration of the dust in a vicinity of a source fromwhich the dust is discharged (for example, material storage O3) is lowerthan the management concentration. The second management class IIindicates that the average of the concentration of the dust is equal toor lower than the management concentration or the maximum value of theconcentration of the dust in the vicinity of the source from which thedust is discharged is not more than 1.5 times the managementconcentration. The third management class III indicates that the averageof the concentration of the dust is higher than the managementconcentration or the maximum value of the concentration of the dust inthe vicinity of the source from which the dust is discharged is morethan 1.5 times the management concentration.

It is possible for the manager M2 to suitably manage the workers M1 whomove in the workplace A5, by checking the first management class I, thesecond management class II, or the third management class III of each ofthe unit workplaces A6, which classes are discernibly displayed on themap Ma.

As an example, in a case where the first management class I is displayedon the map Ma, the manager M2 attempts to continuously maintain acurrent management condition of a worker M1. In a case where the secondmanagement class II is displayed on the map Ma, the manager M2 carriesout an inspection on at least one of the material storage O3, thefacilities (equipment) O4, and the management method. On the basis of aresult of the inspection, the manager M2 attempts to take measuresnecessary to improve a working environment. In a case where the thirdmanagement class III is displayed on the map Ma, the manager M2 carriesout an inspection on at least one of the material storage O3, thefacilities (equipment) O4, and the management method. On the basis of aresult of the inspection, the manager M2 attempts to take measuresnecessary to improve the working environment. Moreover, the manager M2makes the worker M1 use effective respiratory protective equipment.Furthermore, the manager M2 (i) makes the worker M1 receive a medicalcheck-up and (ii) takes measures necessary to make the worker M1 stayhealthy, in a case where an industrial physician considers it necessaryfor the manager M2 to do so. In addition, after the manager M2 takesmeasures to improve the working environment, the manager M2 makes theworker M1 carry out working environment measurement again, and checkswhether or not the third management class III turns to the firstmanagement class I or the second management class II.

Note, here, that a lower right unit workplace A6 on the map Ma has thethird management class III. Note also that the concentration of the dustin the selective region Z1 near the material storage O3 in the lowerright unit workplace A6 is particularly high, and an environmentalcondition is worse. In this case, as has been described, the manager M2can select, via the input device 36, the selective region Z1 near thematerial storage O3 in the lower right unit workplace A6 on the map Madisplayed by an output device 37.

Each selective region, such as the selective regions Z1 and Z2, on themap Ma functions as a UI element for causing a transition from the firstscreen S1, on which the map Ma is displayed, to a second screen S2 onwhich the graph that shows the temporal changes in concentration of thedust and the like (see FIG. 7) is displayed or a third screen S3 onwhich the amenity meter that shows the safety and the amenity (see FIG.8) is displayed. Therefore, in a case where the manager M2 selects theselective region Z1 so that the second screen S2 is displayed, atransition to the second screen S2 occurs. On a second screen S2 a on aleft side of FIG. 7, a graph that shows temporal changes inconcentration of the dust in the selective region Z1 on the map Ma isdisplayed. On a second screen S2 b on a right side of FIG. 7, a graphthat shows temporal changes in concentration of the dust, temperature,and humidity in the selective region Z1 on the map Ma is displayed. Itis possible for the manager M2 to recognize the concentration of thedust in the selective region Z1, which is a narrow region, on the secondscreen S2 a. It is possible for the manager M2 to easily recognize acorrelation between the concentration of the dust, the temperature, andthe humidity by causing the temperature and the humidity to be displayedin addition to the concentration of the dust as in the second screen S2b. As a result, it is possible for the manager M2 to more suitablymanage the working environment in the selective region Z1. Note that thecontroller 31 of the management device 3 is capable of controlling thesecond screen S2 to switch from the second screen S2 a to the secondscreen S2 b, in response to, for example, an instruction inputted by themanager M2 via the input device 36.

In a case where that manager M2 selects the selective region Z2 near thefacilities O4 on the map Ma displayed by the output device 37, atransition to the third screen S3 illustrated in FIG. 8 occurs.According to FIG. 8, the safety and the amenity in the selective regionZ2 are displayed with use of the amenity meter. This allows the managerM2 to more suitably understand the safety and the amenity in theselective region Z2, which is a narrow region.

Note that according to the above example, the map Ma is a map that showsthe spatial distribution of the latest measurement values in theworkplace A5 (the latest spatial distribution of the hazardoussubstance). In Embodiment 1, the management device 3 can alternativelymake the map that shows the spatial distribution of the measurementvalues (the spatial distribution of the hazardous substance) withreference to, for example, the concentration of the dust and thepositional information during a predetermined time period.

Note also that, according to the above example, management classes arediscernibly displayed on the map Ma with use of numerical valuesrepresented by I through III. In Embodiment 1, no management class canbe alternatively displayed on the map Ma. In a case where the managementclasses are displayed on the map Ma, the management classes can bedisplayed in any form, provided that the management classes arediscernibly displayed. Note also that, according to the above example,the management classes are classified into three stages. In Embodiment1, the management classes can be alternatively classified into anystages.

Note also that, according to the above example, on the second screen S2b on the right side of FIG. 7, the graph that shows the temporal changesin concentration of the dust, temperature, and humidity in the selectiveregion Z1 on the map Ma is displayed. In Embodiment 1, on the secondscreen S2 b, values of pieces of data detected by the various sensorssuch as the light sensor 21 c and the sound sensor 21 d can bealternatively displayed in addition to or instead of the temperature andthe humidity. This allows the manager M2 to easily recognize correlationbetween the concentration of the dust and various pieces of datadetected by the various sensors. As a result, it is possible for themanager M2 to more suitably manage the working environment in theselective region Z1.

Note also that, according to the above example, as illustrated in FIG.8, each selective region, such as the selective regions Z1 and Z2, onthe map Ma functions as an UI element for causing a transition to thethird screen S3 on which the amenity meter that shows the safety and theamenity is displayed based on the concentration of the dust, aconcentration of a gas (VOC), a illuminance, a noise, a degree ofcomfort, and a wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT). Note, however, that,in Embodiment 1, the map Ma is not limited to such a configuration.

Note also that the controller 31 of the management device 3 can controlwarning (alarm) to be displayed on the first screen S1 illustrated inFIG. 6, the warning indicating that the concentration of the dust in anyof the unit workplaces A6 has increased, in a case where theconcentration of the dust in the any of the unit workplaces A6 hasincreased. For example, the controller 31 of the management device 3 cancontrol a caution to be displayed on the first screen S1 illustrated inFIG. 6, when the average or the maximum value of the concentration ofthe dust in any of the unit workplaces A6 reaches 80% of the managementconcentration, which is a predetermined management concentrationcorresponding to free silicic acid. Further, the controller 31 of themanagement device 3 can control a warning (alarm) to be displayed on thefirst screen S1, when (at the moment) the average or the maximum valueof the concentration of the dust in any of the unit workplaces A6reaches the management concentration. By thus sending a notification(for example, by displaying the caution or the warning) indicating thatthe concentration of the dust has increased in the any of the unitworkplaces A6, it is possible for the manager M2 to more suitably managethe working environment in the any of the unit workplaces A6.Furthermore, by thus displaying the caution at a time point when theaverage or the maximum value of the concentration of the dust in the anyof the unit workplaces A6 reaches 80% of the management concentration,it is possible to send, in advance, a notification indicating that theconcentration of the dust has increased.

Moreover, the controller 31 of the management device 3 can predict achange in concentration of the dust with reference to correlationbetween (i) a measurement value that has been previously obtained in ameasuring process (previous measurement value) and (ii) a measurementvalue that has been newly obtained in the measuring process. Forexample, the controller 31 of the management device 3 can predict thechange in concentration of the dust as follows. That is, the controller31 of the management device 3 extracts a measurement value that ishighly correlative with the measurement value that has been newlyobtained in the measuring process, from previous measurement values thathave been obtained at predetermined measurement points A3 and the likeillustrated in FIG. 1. The controller 31 of the management device 3 thenpredicts the change in concentration of the dust, with reference to howmuch the measurement value that has been newly obtained changes fromsuch an extracted previous measurement value. This makes it possible forthe manager M2 to more suitably manage the working environment in eachof the unit workplaces A6.

(Example Display 2 of Map that Shows Spatial Distribution of MeasurementValues in Workplace)

Next, example display 2 of the map that shows the spatial distributionof the measurement values in the workplace will be described withreference to FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating an example of ascreen (fourth screen S4) on which a map Mb that is made in Embodiment 1of the present invention and that shows spatial distribution ofmeasurement values (spatial distribution of a temperature) in theworkplace A5 is displayed.

According to the map Mb illustrated in FIG. 9, out of the buttons Bwhich are constituted by the buttons B1 through B5, the button B5 whichis related to a temperature is selected, and temperatures ranging from20° C. to 40° C. are discernibly displayed in 10 stages. The map Mbshows the spatial distribution of the measurement values of thetemperature in the workplace A5 in a case where, in the step S103illustrated in FIG. 3, each of the mobile devices 2 carries out theenvironment measurement with use of a temperature and humidity sensor 21e. This makes it possible to intuitively understand the condition of theworkplace A5 which is a large region including the unit workplaces A6.Furthermore, the map Mb shows the mobile devices 2, the material storageO3, and the facilities O4, similarly to the map Ma. Since the mobiledevices 2 are thus displayed on the map Mb, it is possible for themanager M2 to suitably manage the workers M1 who wear the respectivemobile devices 2, as with the map Ma that shows the spatial distributionof the hazardous substance. Note that, according to the above example,the temperatures ranging from 20° C. to 40° C. are displayed in 10stages on the map Mb. However, in Embodiment 1, the map Mb is notlimited to such a configuration. In Embodiment 1, it is possible for themanager M2 to set a temperature range and the number of stages asdesired depending on an environment of the workplace A5.

Note that it is possible for the manager M2 to switch display from themap Ma illustrated in FIG. 6 to the map Mb illustrated in FIG. 9, byselecting, via, for example, the input device 36, the button B5 relatedto the temperature, in a state where the button B1 related to theconcentration of the dust is selected. Note also that selective regions,such as the selective regions Z1 and Z2, which function as UI elementsfor causing transitions to the second screen S2 and the third screen S3can be displayed on the map Mb, as with the map Ma.

[Software Implementation Example]

Control blocks of the mobile device 2 and the management device 3(particularly, the controllers 22 and 31) can be realized by a logiccircuit (hardware) provided in an integrated circuit (IC chip) or thelike or can be alternatively realized by software.

In the latter case, the mobile device 2 and the management device 3 eachinclude a computer that executes instructions of a program that issoftware realizing the foregoing functions. The computer, for example,includes at least one processor and a computer-readable storage mediumin which the program is stored. An object of the present invention canbe attained by the processor of the computer reading and executing theprogram stored in the storage medium. Examples of the processorencompass a central processing unit (CPU). Examples of the storagemedium encompass a “non-transitory tangible medium” such as a read onlymemory (ROM), a tape, a disk, a card, a semiconductor memory, and aprogrammable logic circuit. The computer may further include a randomaccess memory (RAM) or the like in which the program is loaded. Further,the program may be supplied to or made available to the computer via anytransmission medium (such as a communication network and a broadcastwave) which allows the program to be transmitted. Note that an aspect ofthe present invention can also be achieved in the form of a computerdata signal in which the program is embodied via electronic transmissionand which is embedded in a carrier wave.

The present invention is not limited to the embodiments, but can bealtered by a skilled person in the art within the scope of the claims.The present invention also encompasses, in its technical scope, anyembodiment derived by combining technical means disclosed in differingembodiments.

[Recapitulation]

A management method in accordance with an aspect of the presentinvention is a method for managing a working environment of a worker whomoves in a workplace. The management method includes: a measuringprocess in which a mobile device worn by the worker carries outenvironment measurement with use of a sensor; a location identifyingprocess in which the mobile device identifies a location at which themeasuring process has been carried out; and a transmitting process inwhich the mobile device transmits, to a management device, (i) ameasurement value that has been obtained in the measuring process and(ii) positional information indicative of the location that has beenidentified in the location identifying process, in association eachother.

According to the above configuration, it is possible for the mobiledevice worn by the worker who moves in the workplace to carry out theenvironment measurement. With reference to the measurement value and thepositional information received from the mobile device, it is possiblefor the management device to make a map that shows spatial distributionof measurement values in the workplace. Therefore, it is possible tosuitably manage the working environment of the worker who moves in theworkplace, as compared with a configuration in which a robot is used tocarry out environment measurement as in the technique disclosed in eachof Patent Literatures 1 and 2 and a configuration in which a vehicle isused to carry out environment measurement as in the technique disclosedin Patent Literature 3.

The management method in accordance with an aspect of the presentinvention is preferably arranged such that the sensor includes a dustsensor; and the measurement value indicates a concentration of dustwhich concentration is measured with use of the dust sensor.

According to the above configuration, it is possible for the managementdevice that has received the concentration of the dust and thepositional information to suitably identify a management class of a unitworkplace by comparing an average or a maximum value of theconcentration of the dust with a management concentration which is apredetermined concentration corresponding to a hazardous substance,without an expert carrying out the environment measurement and analyzingdata. This makes it possible to more suitably manage the workingenvironment of the worker who moves in the workplace which contains thehazardous substance.

The management method in accordance with an aspect of the presentinvention is preferably arranged so as to further include an air blowingprocess in which the mobile device blows air to the dust sensor in acase where the measuring process is carried out.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to (i) suppress anamount of consumption of a battery of the mobile device and (ii)decrease an amount of dirt accumulated on a surface of the dust sensor.

The management method in accordance with an aspect of the presentinvention is preferably arranged such that the environment measurementis environment measurement on a hazardous substance; and the hazardoussubstance is free silicic acid.

According to the above configuration, it is possible for the managementdevice that has received the concentration of the dust and thepositional information to more suitably identify the management class ofthe unit workplace by comparing the average or the maximum value of theconcentration of the dust with the management concentration which is apredetermined concentration corresponding to free silicic acid. Thismakes it possible to more suitably manage the working environment of theworker who moves in the workplace which contains the hazardous substancesuch as free silicic acid.

The management method in accordance with an aspect of the presentinvention is preferably arranged such that the mobile device carries outthe measuring process at the location that is a predetermined locationin the workplace.

According to the above configuration, the mobile device worn by theworker definitely carries out the measuring process of carrying out theenvironment measurement, at the predetermined location in the workplace.This allows measurement locations (measurement points) to be lessconcentrated at a specific location. It is therefore possible for themanagement device that has received the measurement value and thepositional information from the mobile device to suitably make the mapthat shows the spatial distribution of the measurement values in theworkplace. As a result, it is possible to more suitably manage theworking environment of the worker who moves in the workplace.

The management method in accordance with an aspect of the presentinvention is preferably arranged such that the sensor includes anacceleration sensor; and the mobile device shortens intervals at whichthe mobile device carries out the measuring process, as a speed at whichthe worker moves becomes faster.

According to the above configuration, the mobile device shortensmeasurement intervals, in a case where the speed at which the workermoves (acceleration) is fast. In contrast, the mobile device lengthensthe measurement intervals, in a case where the speed at which the workermoves (acceleration) is slow (for example, in a case where the workerhardly moves). This allows the measurement locations to be lessconcentrated at a specific location. It is therefore possible for themanagement device that has received the measurement value and thepositional information from the mobile device to suitably make the mapthat shows the spatial distribution of the measurement values in theworkplace. As a result, it is possible to more suitably manage theworking environment of the worker who moves in the workplace.

The management method in accordance with an aspect of the presentinvention is preferably arranged such that the sensor is attached to amain body of the mobile device so that the sensor is exposed to anenvironment of the workplace or is connected to the mobile device bywire or wireless.

According to the above configuration, it is possible for the mobiledevice to more suitably carry out the measuring process.

The management method in accordance with an aspect of the presentinvention is preferably arranged so as to further include a notifyingprocess in which the mobile device notifies the worker in a case wherethe sensor is not attached to the main body of the mobile device so thatthe sensor is exposed to the environment of the workplace or is notconnected to the mobile device by wire or wireless.

In a case where the sensor, such as the dust sensor, which carries outthe measuring process of carrying out the environment measurement is notworn by the worker under a normal condition, an error occurs in themeasurement value that has been obtained by the measuring process.However, according to the above configuration, it is possible to preventan error from occurring, by notifying the worker.

The management method in accordance with an aspect of the presentinvention is preferably arranged such that the sensor includes anacceleration sensor; and in the location identifying process, thelocation at which the measuring process has been carried out isidentified with reference to (i) an initial location that has beenidentified by a radio beacon and (ii) an acceleration that has beendetected by the acceleration sensor.

According to the above configuration, by using the acceleration sensorand the radio beacon in combination, it is possible to identify, withhigh accuracy, the location at which the measuring process has beencarried out, as compared with a case where the location is identifiedwith use of merely the acceleration sensor or merely the radio beacon.Moreover, it is possible to identify the location without use ofnumerous radio beacons. This allows a decrease in cost.

A mobile device in accordance with an aspect of the present invention isa mobile device worn by a worker who moves in a workplace, including acontroller, the controller carrying out each process included in themanagement method.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to bring abouteffects similar to those brought about by the management method.

The mobile device in accordance with an aspect of the present inventioncan be arranged such that the controller includes a processor and amemory; and the processor carries out the each process included in themanagement method, in accordance with a program stored in the memory.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to bring abouteffects similar to those brought about by the management method.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

-   1 Management system-   2 Mobile device-   3 Management device-   21 a Dust sensor-   21 b Acceleration sensor-   21 c Light sensor-   21 d Sound sensor-   21 e Temperature and humidity sensor-   22, 31 Controller-   23, 32 Main memory-   24, 33 Auxiliary memory-   25 a, 25 b, 34 Communication interface-   L LAN-   Wa, Wb WAN-   23, 35 Input-output interface-   27, 36 Input device-   28, 37 Output device-   29, 38 Bus-   A1, A5 Workplace-   A2, A6 Unit workplace-   A3 Measurement point-   A4 Initial location-   B transmitter of a beacon (radio beacon)-   M1 Worker-   M2 Manager-   Ma, Mb Map-   O1, O3 Material storage-   O2, O4 Facilities-   P1, P2 Program-   R Management room-   S1 First screen-   S2, S2 a, S2 b Second screen-   S3 Third screen-   Z1, Z2 Selective region

1. A method for managing a working environment of a worker who moves ina workplace, comprising: a measuring process in which a mobile deviceworn by the worker carries out environment measurement with use of asensor; a location identifying process in which the mobile deviceidentifies a location at which the measuring process has been carriedout; and a transmitting process in which the mobile device transmits, toa management device, (i) a measurement value that has been obtained inthe measuring process and (ii) positional information indicative of thelocation that has been identified in the location identifying process,in association each other.
 2. The method as set forth in claim 1,wherein: the sensor includes a dust sensor; and the measurement valueindicates a concentration of dust which concentration is measured withuse of the dust sensor.
 3. The method as set forth in claim 2, furthercomprising an air blowing process in which the mobile device blows airto the dust sensor in a case where the measuring process is carried out.4. The method as set forth in claim 2, wherein: the environmentmeasurement is environment measurement on a hazardous substance; and thehazardous substance is free silicic acid.
 5. The method as set forth inclaim 1, wherein the mobile device carries out the measuring process atthe location that is a predetermined location in the workplace.
 6. Themethod as set forth in claim 1, wherein: the sensor includes anacceleration sensor; and the mobile device shortens intervals at whichthe mobile device carries out the measuring process, as a speed at whichthe worker moves becomes faster.
 7. The method as set forth in claim 1,wherein the sensor is attached to a main body of the mobile device sothat the sensor is exposed to an environment of the workplace or isconnected to the mobile device by wire or wireless.
 8. The method as setforth in claim 7, further comprising a notifying process in which themobile device notifies the worker in a case where the sensor is notattached to the main body of the mobile device so that the sensor isexposed to the environment of the workplace or is not connected to themobile device by wire or wireless.
 9. The method as set forth in claim1, wherein: the sensor includes an acceleration sensor; and in thelocation identifying process, the location at which the measuringprocess has been carried out is identified with reference to (i) aninitial location that has been identified by a radio beacon and (ii) anacceleration that has been detected by the acceleration sensor.
 10. Amobile device worn by a worker who moves in a workplace, comprising acontroller, the controller carrying out each process included in themethod recited in claim
 1. 11. The mobile device as set forth in claim10, wherein: the controller includes a processor and a memory; and theprocessor carries out the each process included in the method, inaccordance with a program stored in the memory.